Got an Atomos Shogun, Blade or other recorder? Trade it in to Atomos and get up to $500 cashback on a new HDR or Shogun Flame, or $400 on a Ninja Flame.
This new promotion allows customers to be at the forefront of technology, benefiting from HDR monitoring, 4K recording and other new functionalities of the Shogun Flame and Ninja Flame, including:
AtomHDR monitoring and recording.
10-bit colour depth and 1500 nit high brightness.
4K RAW recording.
Continuous power with 2 battery ports.
Get the right exposure with HDR when recording in LOG.
How to get your Atomos HDR Upgrade Offer
The cashback offer on a Shogun Flame is $300, but when you also trade in your old Shogun, you can get up to $200 for it. Overall, a new Shogun Flame is $1695 (excl. tax), subtract the $500 you saved in total and get a shiny new HDR monitor and recorder for just $1195.
For the Ninja Flame, the cashback offer is $200, but trade in your old Shogun for $200 and save a total of $400 off the purchase of a new Ninja Flame. This reduces the cost from $1295 (excl. tax) to $895.
If you have any of the older Atomos products such as the Ninja 2, Ninja Star or Samurai, you can get up to $75 when trading them in. For the Ninja Blade, a $100 trade-in offer is available.
Lastly, if your product isn’t in working order, you can trade that in too! You get less on the trade-in value, but it shifts that bit of kit that was gathering dust, and allows you to step into the HDR and 4K generation.
Keeping up with tech is like running after a bus, so it’s great that Atomos acknowledge this by offering new and existing customers money off to keep up with the latest advancements in video and filming. To check out how much you can get for your old recorders, visit the Atomos website here.
Please note, the trade in is available to the first 500 claimants only, and the cashback offer is available until the 31st January 2017.

Got an Atomos Shogun, Blade or other recorder? Trade it in to Atomos and get up to $500 cashback on a new HDR or Shogun Flame, or $400 on a Ninja Flame.
This new promotion allows customers to be at the forefront of technology, benefiting from HDR monitoring, 4K recording and other new functionalities of the Shogun Flame and Ninja Flame, including:
AtomHDR monitoring and recording.
10-bit colour depth and 1500 nit high brightness.
4K RAW recording.
Continuous power with 2 battery ports.
Get the right exposure with HDR when recording in LOG.
How to get your Atomos HDR Upgrade Offer
The cashback offer on a Shogun Flame is $300, but when you also trade in your old Shogun, you can get up to $200 for it. Overall, a new Shogun Flame is $1695 (excl. tax), subtract the $500 you saved in total and get a shiny new HDR monitor and recorder for just $1195.
For the Ninja Flame, the cashback offer is $200, but trade in your old Shogun for $200 and save a total of $400 off the purchase of a new Ninja Flame. This reduces the cost from $1295 (excl. tax) to $895.
If you have any of the older Atomos products such as the Ninja 2, Ninja Star or Samurai, you can get up to $75 when trading them in. For the Ninja Blade, a $100 trade-in offer is available.
Lastly, if your product isn’t in working order, you can trade that in too! You get less on the trade-in value, but it shifts that bit of kit that was gathering dust, and allows you to step into the HDR and 4K generation.
Keeping up with tech is like running after a bus, so it’s great that Atomos acknowledge this by offering new and existing customers money off to keep up with the latest advancements in video and filming. To check out how much you can get for your old recorders, visit the Atomos website here.
Please note, the trade in is available to the first 500 claimants only, and the cashback offer is available until the 31st January 2017.

Blackmagic Design has just released a new firmware update for their Video Assist line of monitors / recorders which introduces LUT support as well as new codecs and visual aids. Some of these previously available for the 4K model only, such as false color, are now being implemented in the 5″ model, too.
Firmware 2.3 for Video Assist
The Blackmagic Design Video Assist line of monitors / recorders certainly aren’t the most expensive, and neither are they considered the best ones out there. But we live in modern times, and since these recorders are essentially computers with a screen, firmware updates are here to help. Firmware Version 2.3 adds a ton of new features to the Video Assists out there, including LUT support, more codecs and more visual aids for the original 5″ Video Assist.
First up, LUTs. Now, this is a huge improvement! I was actually considering buying the 4K model, but the lack of this single feature had kept me from actually pulling the trigger. For most of my work, I acquire footage in some flavour of a LOG profile, and judging a shot by looking at such a flat image can be quite dull. That’s why I think LUT support is essential for any external monitor, recorder or combination of the two.
You can add up to six custom LUTs to each unit, and can load them in as needed. So you are able to get, for example, both a technical Rec.709 LUT for your LOG curve of choice as well as a stylistic LUT which will be your final look.
Perhaps as a result of the Blackmagic Design Video Assist not being the most expensive piece of tech out there, some users have complained about a slight greenish tint in the image. Although the best solution would be some kind of tint slider within the software, another possible solution could be a custom LUT designed to address this issue in particular. Hook up the Video Assist to DaVinci Resolve, tweak an existing LUT slightly towards magenta and you’re all set.
Codecs, Wrappers and Visual Aids
Blackmagic Design has now added various codecs and wrappers (previously available for the 4k version only) to the original 5″ Video Assist, too. There are now different bitrates available for the DNxHD codec: 220, 145 and 45. Also, the MXF wrapper is now available for those DNxHD codecs, making it easier for AVID users to get the footage into their system.
codec options available for the Video Assist
For both versions, an improved focus assist tool has been implemented, giving you a choice between different focus-in-color modes as well as peaking.
Gimbal users out there will recognise the need for a manual setting for the the orientation of the screen, a feature that has been added to this firmware update as well.
False color is now available for the original 5″ Video Assist, too. I think they should have added this feature as soon as it became available for the 4K model, but it’s here now and that is certainly a good thing.
false color scale
There is an updated manual for the Video Assist available here.
Full Rundown of Improvements
To summarise, here is the full list of changes and improvements:
Add LUT monitoring
Add MXF wrapper to DNxHD for the Blackmagic Video Assist
Add different DNx bit-rates – DNxHD 220,145 and 45 for the Blackmagic Video Assist
Add False Color monitoring to the Blackmagic Video Assist
Add expanded options for Focus Assist to include Red, Green, Blue and White as well as Peaking
Add manual control for screen orientation
Add extended HDMI luminance range
Improves screen colorimetry
Improves fan audible noise
What do you think about this firmware update? Is this worth a closer look, or would you stick with higher end monitors / recorders such as the Atomos Shogun, the Odyssey 7Q+ or the Video Devices PIX E-7?

Blackmagic Design has just released a new firmware update for their Video Assist line of monitors / recorders which introduces LUT support as well as new codecs and visual aids. Some of these previously available for the 4K model only, such as false color, are now being implemented in the 5″ model, too.
Firmware 2.3 for Video Assist
The Blackmagic Design Video Assist line of monitors / recorders certainly aren’t the most expensive, and neither are they considered the best ones out there. But we live in modern times, and since these recorders are essentially computers with a screen, firmware updates are here to help. Firmware Version 2.3 adds a ton of new features to the Video Assists out there, including LUT support, more codecs and more visual aids for the original 5″ Video Assist.
First up, LUTs. Now, this is a huge improvement! I was actually considering buying the 4K model, but the lack of this single feature had kept me from actually pulling the trigger. For most of my work, I acquire footage in some flavour of a LOG profile, and judging a shot by looking at such a flat image can be quite dull. That’s why I think LUT support is essential for any external monitor, recorder or combination of the two.
You can add up to six custom LUTs to each unit, and can load them in as needed. So you are able to get, for example, both a technical Rec.709 LUT for your LOG curve of choice as well as a stylistic LUT which will be your final look.
Perhaps as a result of the Blackmagic Design Video Assist not being the most expensive piece of tech out there, some users have complained about a slight greenish tint in the image. Although the best solution would be some kind of tint slider within the software, another possible solution could be a custom LUT designed to address this issue in particular. Hook up the Video Assist to DaVinci Resolve, tweak an existing LUT slightly towards magenta and you’re all set.
Codecs, Wrappers and Visual Aids
Blackmagic Design has now added various codecs and wrappers (previously available for the 4k version only) to the original 5″ Video Assist, too. There are now different bitrates available for the DNxHD codec: 220, 145 and 45. Also, the MXF wrapper is now available for those DNxHD codecs, making it easier for AVID users to get the footage into their system.
codec options available for the Video Assist
For both versions, an improved focus assist tool has been implemented, giving you a choice between different focus-in-color modes as well as peaking.
Gimbal users out there will recognise the need for a manual setting for the the orientation of the screen, a feature that has been added to this firmware update as well.
False color is now available for the original 5″ Video Assist, too. I think they should have added this feature as soon as it became available for the 4K model, but it’s here now and that is certainly a good thing.
false color scale
There is an updated manual for the Video Assist available here.
Full Rundown of Improvements
To summarise, here is the full list of changes and improvements:
Add LUT monitoring
Add MXF wrapper to DNxHD for the Blackmagic Video Assist
Add different DNx bit-rates – DNxHD 220,145 and 45 for the Blackmagic Video Assist
Add False Color monitoring to the Blackmagic Video Assist
Add expanded options for Focus Assist to include Red, Green, Blue and White as well as Peaking
Add manual control for screen orientation
Add extended HDMI luminance range
Improves screen colorimetry
Improves fan audible noise
What do you think about this firmware update? Is this worth a closer look, or would you stick with higher end monitors / recorders such as the Atomos Shogun, the Odyssey 7Q+ or the Video Devices PIX E-7?

Teradek has announced a new compact wireless video system. The Teradek Bolt 500 keeps the small form factor of the Bolt 300, but with an increased range of an impressive 500-foot distance, as well as offering HDMI/SDI conversion.
Teradek has become one of the industry standards for wireless video transmission systems. They offer robust solutions for when you are you looking to transmit your video signal to a wirelessl, whether for providing a separate monitor for client viewing, director viewing and/or your camera is situated where running a cable isn’t practical, such as when sat on a gimbal, high out of reach or across a long distance.
The Bolt 500 is, however, still placed in Teradek’s short range category, a product that will favour users looking to keep their wireless systems small. The Bolt 500 is similar in size to its smaller 300-foot range brother, but step up to the Bolt 1000 and above and you’ll have to deal with a larger physical system when taking antennas into consideration.
Like the Bolt 300, the Bolt 500 has internal antennas, keeping its footprint low (dimensions below). The Bolt 500 is also Teradek’s lightest in this line for both TX and RX, and like all other Bolt models, it features up to 1080 60p support, and has a capability of up to 4 receivers.
Other new additions include Teradek’s Rapid Reconnect and a HDMI/SDI cross converter.
Specification list for the Teradek Bolt 500
Range: 500 foot
Rapid Reconnect: Yes
Number of 20MHz DFS Chs: 0
Number of 40MHz DFS Chs: 40
Input/Output: 3G-SDI & HDMI
Resolution/Framerate: up to 1080/60p
TX HDMI/SDI Convertor: Yes
Latency: <0.001 Seconds
Multicast: Up to 4 RX
Metadata Support: Yes
USB 3.0 Grab Engine: Yes
Power: 2 pin Lemo 2-28 VDC
Size: (TX) 24X66X102mm (RX) 25X89X146mm
Weight TX/RX: 217g/299g
I can see the Teradek Bolt 500 being suitable for many applications due to its small form factor and HDMI/SDI cross compatibility, and I’m sure it will prove to be a popular product with hire companies.
A single system featuring both HDMI and SDI will retail for $3990.00

There are lots of interesting projects that crop up on Kickstarter, some successful, others a complete flop. With 38 days to go, The Spontaneous Pop-Up Display (SPUD) has gained lots of traction, surpassing its crowdfunding goal of $33,000 to over $350,000. But what makes this innovation so popular?
The SPUD is a 24-inch collapsing projector display that can be used pretty much anywhere with pretty much any device. It’s a high resolution display with speakers that, when folded away, is about the size of a book. Imagine extending your 15 inch laptop screen for editing on the go, for presentations with clients or at trade shows with this little device without the need for an actual physical screen.
How Does It Work?
The display is essentially a small projector with a short throw distance. This means that, thanks to its custom-designed optics, the sharp and bright image can be projected and clearly focused onto a screen only a few inches away. This expands laptop displays up for 4 times, and 23 times larger than a smartphone screen.
SPUD collapsible display
Unlike traditional projector screen materials that crease and crumple when folded, the SPUD projection screen is made from a flexible polymer that is also washable. The brightness is adjustable via a dial on the projector unit rated at 350 nits for soft lighting use, or up to 785 nits for use in bright light.
What about compatibility? No problem! The unit has a standard HDMI port to connect to devices such as laptops, tablets as well as wireless TV devices such as Google Chromecast and Amazon FireTV. It also includes a USB port to power the wireless adapters mentioned, or charge other devices.
It has a built-in battery that lasts up to 10 hours at 350 nits and 4 hours at 785 nits, but can also be powered by 12 V DC for longer periods of use. For a device that collapses down to fit in a bag, and weighing 0.9kg, it is truly a portable solution.
Here are the full specifications –
Native resolution of 1280 x 720 (not FullHD).
24 inch diagonal screen size (21 inch width).
16:9 aspect ratio.
Brightness rating from 350 nits in soft lighting to 785 nits in bright light.
Battery life of up to 10 hours @ 350 nits and 4 hours @ 785 nits.
Weighs under 2lb (0.9kg)
Collapses down to 5.64 inch width, 2.17 inch height, 7.52 inch length (17cm width, 5.5cm height, 19cm length).
HDMI or wireless adapter connection.
120Hz refresh rate (good for gaming and video).
Built-in stereo speakers
Powered via internal battery or 12 V DC.
The SPUD is certainly exciting for video work, and it could be used for a range of functions such as an external camera display, an autocue or portaprompt, or simply a larger display for editing and video playback. It’s a shame that the display resolution isn’t 1920 x 1080 Full HD, but as mentioned in the video, the creators were looking for portability and ease of use. I guess there is only so much you can fit into a small, low cost projector.
The SPUD campaign on Kickstarter still has 38 days to go, and currently has a flash sale for one SPUD for $384.00, with the standard backing being $399.00. Estimated delivery is June 2017, so there is a bit of a wait, but it’ll be an interesting product to support if you find yourself always needing a bigger display!

There are lots of interesting projects that crop up on Kickstarter, some successful, others a complete flop. With 38 days to go, The Spontaneous Pop-Up Display (SPUD) has gained lots of traction, surpassing its crowdfunding goal of $33,000 to over $350,000. But what makes this innovation so popular?
The SPUD is a 24-inch collapsing projector display that can be used pretty much anywhere with pretty much any device. It’s a high resolution display with speakers that, when folded away, is about the size of a book. Imagine extending your 15 inch laptop screen for editing on the go, for presentations with clients or at trade shows with this little device without the need for an actual physical screen.
How Does It Work?
The display is essentially a small projector with a short throw distance. This means that, thanks to its custom-designed optics, the sharp and bright image can be projected and clearly focused onto a screen only a few inches away. This expands laptop displays up for 4 times, and 23 times larger than a smartphone screen.
SPUD collapsible display
Unlike traditional projector screen materials that crease and crumple when folded, the SPUD projection screen is made from a flexible polymer that is also washable. The brightness is adjustable via a dial on the projector unit rated at 350 nits for soft lighting use, or up to 785 nits for use in bright light.
What about compatibility? No problem! The unit has a standard HDMI port to connect to devices such as laptops, tablets as well as wireless TV devices such as Google Chromecast and Amazon FireTV. It also includes a USB port to power the wireless adapters mentioned, or charge other devices.
It has a built-in battery that lasts up to 10 hours at 350 nits and 4 hours at 785 nits, but can also be powered by 12 V DC for longer periods of use. For a device that collapses down to fit in a bag, and weighing 0.9kg, it is truly a portable solution.
Here are the full specifications –
Native resolution of 1280 x 720 (not FullHD).
24 inch diagonal screen size (21 inch width).
16:9 aspect ratio.
Brightness rating from 350 nits in soft lighting to 785 nits in bright light.
Battery life of up to 10 hours @ 350 nits and 4 hours @ 785 nits.
Weighs under 2lb (0.9kg)
Collapses down to 5.64 inch width, 2.17 inch height, 7.52 inch length (17cm width, 5.5cm height, 19cm length).
HDMI or wireless adapter connection.
120Hz refresh rate (good for gaming and video).
Built-in stereo speakers
Powered via internal battery or 12 V DC.
The SPUD is certainly exciting for video work, and it could be used for a range of functions such as an external camera display, an autocue or portaprompt, or simply a larger display for editing and video playback. It’s a shame that the display resolution isn’t 1920 x 1080 Full HD, but as mentioned in the video, the creators were looking for portability and ease of use. I guess there is only so much you can fit into a small, low cost projector.
The SPUD campaign on Kickstarter still has 38 days to go, and currently has a flash sale for one SPUD for $384.00, with the standard backing being $399.00. Estimated delivery is June 2017, so there is a bit of a wait, but it’ll be an interesting product to support if you find yourself always needing a bigger display!

There are lots of interesting projects that crop up on Kickstarter, some successful, others a complete flop. With 38 days to go, The Spontaneous Pop-Up Display (SPUD) has gained lots of traction, surpassing its crowdfunding goal of $33,000 to over $350,000. But what makes this innovation so popular?
The SPUD is a 24-inch collapsing projector display that can be used pretty much anywhere with pretty much any device. It’s a high resolution display with speakers that, when folded away, is about the size of a book. Imagine extending your 15 inch laptop screen for editing on the go, for presentations with clients or at trade shows with this little device without the need for an actual physical screen.
How Does It Work?
The display is essentially a small projector with a short throw distance. This means that, thanks to its custom-designed optics, the sharp and bright image can be projected and clearly focused onto a screen only a few inches away. This expands laptop displays up for 4 times, and 23 times larger than a smartphone screen.
SPUD collapsible display
Unlike traditional projector screen materials that crease and crumple when folded, the SPUD projection screen is made from a flexible polymer that is also washable. The brightness is adjustable via a dial on the projector unit rated at 350 nits for soft lighting use, or up to 785 nits for use in bright light.
What about compatibility? No problem! The unit has a standard HDMI port to connect to devices such as laptops, tablets as well as wireless TV devices such as Google Chromecast and Amazon FireTV. It also includes a USB port to power the wireless adapters mentioned, or charge other devices.
It has a built-in battery that lasts up to 10 hours at 350 nits and 4 hours at 785 nits, but can also be powered by 12 V DC for longer periods of use. For a device that collapses down to fit in a bag, and weighing 0.9kg, it is truly a portable solution.
Here are the full specifications –
Native resolution of 1280 x 720 (not FullHD).
24 inch diagonal screen size (21 inch width).
16:9 aspect ratio.
Brightness rating from 350 nits in soft lighting to 785 nits in bright light.
Battery life of up to 10 hours @ 350 nits and 4 hours @ 785 nits.
Weighs under 2lb (0.9kg)
Collapses down to 5.64 inch width, 2.17 inch height, 7.52 inch length (17cm width, 5.5cm height, 19cm length).
HDMI or wireless adapter connection.
120Hz refresh rate (good for gaming and video).
Built-in stereo speakers
Powered via internal battery or 12 V DC.
The SPUD is certainly exciting for video work, and it could be used for a range of functions such as an external camera display, an autocue or portaprompt, or simply a larger display for editing and video playback. It’s a shame that the display resolution isn’t 1920 x 1080 Full HD, but as mentioned in the video, the creators were looking for portability and ease of use. I guess there is only so much you can fit into a small, low cost projector.
The SPUD campaign on Kickstarter still has 38 days to go, and currently has a flash sale for one SPUD for $384.00, with the standard backing being $399.00. Estimated delivery is June 2017, so there is a bit of a wait, but it’ll be an interesting product to support if you find yourself always needing a bigger display!